China: Construction Begins on Zhejiang Gate Towers in Hangzhou

Construction has begun on the Zhejiang Gate Towers in Hangzhou, China. The mixed-use towers are designed to be 280 metres tall and highly sustainable.

The company is aiming for a Gold LEED rating certification. To achieve the goal, the towers incorporate a variety of passive-design choices, such as high-performance windows glazing and a façade consisting of long vertical aluminium shading fins, which reduce the amount of heat absorbed from the sun.

Visually, the buildings set out to be a beautiful landmark. The aluminium facade and the different coloured glazing of the windows will give the illusion that the building is shimmering. The twin development will appear to be a gate to the city, and aims to be recognisable from near and far.

The tower’s structural system makes use of 8 “Super columns” which reduce the support the tower needs by 30 percent. Consequently reducing the amount of material needed for construction.

The Zhejiang Gate Towers is expected to be completed in 2019.The project is part of a five building plan, which includes office, residential, and commercial buildings.